Kilimanjaro Lemosho Trek

From Kilimanjaro to Kilimanjaro

Tour Description

Embark on an exhilarating expedition to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, one of Africa's most renowned peaks, following the spectacular Lemosho Route. This remarkable adventure offers not only personal achievement but also a profound connection with nature. It's more than just ascending a mountain; it's about immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems Kilimanjaro has to offer. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning beauty of the Shira Plateau, enchanted by unique flora, and treated to panoramic vistas of Africa, including the majestic Mount Meru.

Yet, this expedition is about more than just breathtaking scenery. The Lemosho Route is designed to allow for proper acclimatization, ensuring your safety and increasing your chances of successfully reaching the summit. Throughout the trek, you'll challenge yourself both physically and mentally, pushing your boundaries and experiencing the effects of high altitude. Along the way, you'll be guided by experienced professionals deeply committed to your well-being and safety, providing unwavering support and expertise.

Reaching Uhuru Peak at an impressive 5,895 meters is a remarkable achievement that instills an overwhelming sense of personal accomplishment. It's an opportunity to test your limits, fortify your resilience, and discover the strength of determination.

This extraordinary adventure provides an indelible chance to ascend to the summit of the "Roof of Africa" and fully engage with the awe-inspiring landscapes and rich ecosystems that Kilimanjaro boasts.

Top Tip!  Combine this amazing trek with a safari visiting the world famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater and a magical Zanzibar experience for your ultimate adventure.

Viva's Best Bits...

The memories you create during this journey will last a lifetime. From watching the sunrise at Uhuru Peak to sharing stories around the campfire, Kilimanjaro offers unforgettable moments.

The Lemosho Route is renowned for its stunning and diverse landscapes. The trek takes you through lush rainforests, alpine deserts, and snow-capped peaks, providing an ever-changing backdrop of natural beauty.

Compared to some of the more popular routes like the Marangu and Machame routes, the Lemosho Route tends to have fewer trekkers. This means a quieter and more serene trek, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings without the crowds.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Kilimanjaro Airport Moshi

You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel.

In the evening, there will be a briefing with the climb representatives, who will share various information on your upcoming climb and ensure you are ready to embark on your adventure.

Overnight Aishi Machame Hotel on bed and breakfast basis

Day 2
Full day Village and Waterfall Tour

Embark on an immersive journey through the heart of Tanzania as we explore the captivating Materuni Village and its breathtaking Waterfalls.

Our adventure begins with a invigorating hike to Materuni Waterfall, where you'll not only revel in the pristine natural beauty but also engage in a refreshing workout. Whether you seek to prepare your body for the epic climb of Mount Kilimanjaro or simply wish to unwind after the ascent, this trek is the ideal start to your day.

As we traverse the lush landscape, you'll have the chance to witness the growth of local fruits, such as avocados, mangos, lemons, and bananas, providing insights into the agricultural heritage of the region. Along the way, you'll delve into the rich tapestry of local history, traditions, and the vibrant village economy.

Upon reaching the Materuni Waterfall, a hidden gem of Mother Nature, you'll be greeted by a pristine natural pool. Don't forget to pack your swimwear as you'll have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the lush wilderness.

Our journey continues with an enchanting visit to a local village nestled amidst coffee plantations. Here, you'll have the privilege to witness the intricate processes involved in coffee farming and handling. You can even roll up your sleeves and partake in the preparation of coffee beans, savoring the satisfaction of crafting your own brew. Be serenaded by the melodious tunes of the Chagga women as they sing while preparing coffee.

To add a delightful twist to our cultural experience, you'll also have the chance to observe the fascinating process of crafting banana beer, a beloved local beverage. And, of course, you'll have the opportunity to savor the unique flavors of this traditional drink.

Join us for a day of adventure, culture, and natural beauty as we explore Materuni Village and Waterfalls, an unforgettable Tanzanian experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Overnight Aishi Machame Hotel on bed and breakfast basis

Day 3
High-Altitude drop off and trekking to Shira 2 Camp

In the morning, a guide and a support team will rendezvous at your hotel for a briefing. Following this, you'll embark on a roughly 3–4 hour vehicle journey to the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park: Londorossi Gate (2,200 m).

Upon arriving, you'll efficiently secure climbing permits and complete registration with the search and rescue service. From there, the group proceeds upwards to their drop-off point via off-road vehicles, reaching an elevation of 3,500 meters. Here, you'll be greeted by captivating views of the Shira Plateau for the first time.

The route from your drop-off location to your initial high-altitude camp, Shira 1, involves a gradual increase in elevation and presents no significant physical challenges. This allows for effective acclimatization to commence. Upon reaching the camp, our dedicated mountain team will take care of all the essentials, including tent setup and dinner preparation.

During the night, you may encounter discomfort associated with adjusting to the high altitude. Reduced breathing patterns during sleep can result in decreased oxygen intake compared to daytime levels. As a consequence, you may experience symptoms like nausea or headaches due to the altitude. It's crucial to monitor your own well-being and promptly inform your guide if any signs of altitude sickness manifest.

Change in Elevation: Lemosho Glades (3,500 m) — Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m)
Hiking Distance: 5 km
Hiking Duration: 1–2 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 4
Shira 1 Camp Shira 2 Camp

Setting out from Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m), you'll embark on a gentle trek towards the second high-altitude camp: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m). This trek is relatively easy, allowing you to relish in the breathtaking vistas of Africa and the unique Kilimanjaro flora, along with the surrounding landscape. Weather permitting, Shira 2 Camp offers the best vantage point on the journey to catch sight of Mount Meru, Africa's fifth-highest peak. Upon arrival at the camp, a well-deserved lunch break awaits, followed by a two-hour rest. Subsequently, everyone will participate in an acclimatization hike towards Lava Tower Camp, which includes a 200-meter elevation gain.

Please note:
The acclimatization hike is a moderate trek involving a gradual increase in altitude. It plays a vital role in expediting the acclimatization process and should be taken seriously. These hikes enhance your chances of successfully reaching Kilimanjaro's summit and mitigate the risk of altitude sickness.

Trekking from Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp:
Change in Altitude: Shira 1 Camp (3,505 m) — Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m)
Hiking Distance: 7 km
Hiking Duration: 3–4 hours

Acclimatization Hike:
Change in Altitude: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) — Destination point en route to Lava Tower (4,110 m)
Hiking Distance: 2 km
Hiking Duration: 1–2 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 5
Shira 2 Camp to the Lava Tower and descent to Barranco Camp

Following breakfast, you'll depart from Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) and set your course for a pivotal point on the route: Lava Tower (4,630 m). This stretch of the trail entails numerous ascents and descents, culminating in a campsite perched at over 4,600 meters. While it may pose some challenges and discomfort, spending a minimum of 1–2 hours here is essential for successful altitude acclimatization, and it's where you'll enjoy your lunch break.

Subsequently, you'll descend to Barranco Camp (3,960 m), where you'll catch your first glimpse of the renowned Barranco Wall. Its sheer size and steepness are truly impressive! You'll be conquering this wall the next day, but rest assured, it features a straightforward hiking path.

Please note:
In the event that one or more participants experience sickness, the group may opt to bypass Lava Tower and adjust the route, following the trail typically used by porters. In this scenario, the maximum altitude reached will be 4,400 meters, not the 4,630-meter mark.

Change in Altitude: Shira 2 Camp (3,900 m) — Lava Tower (4,630 m) — Barranco Camp (3,960 m)
Hiking Distance: 12 km
Hiking Duration: 6–8 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 6
Trekking from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

An early rise, followed by breakfast, marks the commencement of your ascent up the Barranco Wall (we recommend an early start to avoid congestion with other groups). Scaling the gorge wall is relatively straightforward and typically takes just about an hour. Once you've completed the climb, take a well-deserved break and capture photos with the majestic Kibo volcano as your backdrop.

Next, you'll embark on a more challenging hike to Karanga Camp. This route includes several ascents and descents, but rest assured, our experienced guides will set a suitable pace for the group. Upon reaching Karanga Camp, a warm lunch awaits. Following a brief respite, you'll engage in an acclimatization hike towards Barafu Camp, ascending 200 meters in altitude, before descending back to the camp.

Trekking from Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp:
Change in Altitude: Barranco Camp (3,960 m) — Karanga Camp (4,035 m)
Hiking Distance: 5 km
Hiking Duration: 4–5 hours

Acclimatization Hike:
Change in Altitude: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Destination point en route to Barafu Camp (4,270 m)
Hiking Distance: 2.5 km
Hiking Duration: 1–2 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 7
Trekking from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Following breakfast in the morning, your journey commences towards Barafu Summit Camp (4,640 m), which serves as the launchpad for your nighttime ascent to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Our dedicated team will have already prepared a campsite for you, complete with tents and sleeping bags, providing you with an opportunity to unwind and recharge. After replenishing your energy, an acclimatization hike to the intermediate Kosovo Summit Camp (4,800 m) and back to Barafu Camp awaits. Here, a nourishing hot dinner will be served. It is advisable to dedicate the remainder of the day to rest and sleep in preparation for the night summit.

Trekking from Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp:
Change in Altitude: Karanga Camp (4,035 m) — Barafu Camp (4,640 m)
Hiking Distance: 6 km
Hiking Duration: 4–5 hours

Acclimatization Hike:
Change in Altitude: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Kosovo Camp (4,800 m)
Hiking Distance: 2 km
Hiking Duration: 1–2 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 8
Ascent to Uhuru Peak and descent to Millennium Camp

Commencing from Barafu Camp (4,640 m) under the cover of night marks the beginning of your ascent to Kilimanjaro's summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). While the technical aspects of the climb are relatively straightforward, the true challenge lies in the high altitude. To ensure your safety and well-being, each pair of climbers will be accompanied by a dedicated guide throughout the entire ascent, monitoring your physical and mental condition.

Upon successfully reaching Uhuru Peak, you have the option to descend to the nearest glacier if desired. Subsequently, you'll return to Barafu Camp, where a 2-hour rest will be provided before continuing your descent to Millennium Camp (3,820 m).

Please bear in mind that the descent phase is where 90% of all accidents occur, including injuries such as broken limbs. Pay special attention to your feet, as there is a heightened risk of toenail damage during this phase.

Change in Altitude: Barafu Camp (4,640 m) — Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — Millennium Camp (3,820 m)
Hiking Distance: 15 km
Hiking Duration: 8–12 hours

Overnight in a Modern tent (not walk in) including full board (3 x meals)

Day 9
Descent from Millennium Camp to Mweka Gate

Nestled within a lush tropical rainforest, the camp's tranquil surroundings welcome you as dawn breaks. Having achieved your goal and reaching the summit, you'll savor a hearty breakfast before embarking on the journey towards the park's exit at Mweka Gate (1,650 m), where you will meet your vehicle and be transferred back to the hotel.

Change in Elevation: Millennium Camp (3,820 m) — Mweka Gate (1,650 m)
Hiking distance: 12 km
Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Overnight Aishi Machame Hotel on bed and breakfast basis

Day 10
Moshi Kilimanjaro Airport

Today you will transfer to your Kilimanjaro Airport in time for your flight.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 Accommodation pre and post the climb as specified
  • Included Copy 20 Accommodation in a modern tent (not walk in) on the mountain
  • Included Copy 20 Warm and comfortable sleeping pads (3 inches thick) while camping
Food
  • Included Copy 20 Daily Breakfast at your hotel and 3 square meals daily during the climb
  • Included Copy 7 Lunch and dinner at the hotel (before and after the ascent)
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 All transfers as specified
  • Included Copy 20 Professional Mountain Crew.
  • Included Copy 20 Each participant will be provided with a porter (who can carry up to 15 kg of personal baggage)
  • Included Copy 20 Oxygen systems and pulse oximeters, and first aid kid
  • Included Copy 20 Group equipment (dining tent, table, chairs, crockery, and cutlery)
  • Included Copy 7 Mountaineering and Flying Doctor insurance
  • Included Copy 7 Portable toilet and shower (possible to hire at additional cost)
  • Included Copy 7 Warm Sleeping Bag
  • Included Copy 7 Personal gear rental, gratuities or anything not specified

Activities

  • Included Watch the sunrise from the Roof of Africa as you try for the summit
  • Included Swim in the pristine natural pool found at Materuni Waterfall and interact with the villagers
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

10 days

Price from

$3,876 USD

Per person, sharing

Daily, on request